It is understandable for Atlanta Braves fans to concern themselves with the Philadelphia Phillies this morning. The Phillies are two and a half games behind the Braves in the National League East standings, which means they are plenty close enough to deny retiring manager Bobby Cox a final division title.
And given how well they’ve played all season in forging their current 73-51 mark heading into tonight’s game at Colorado, it would be a shame if Atlanta lost the East pennant to the Phils.
But even if Atlanta eventually succumbs to Philadelphia’s outrageous talent, the Braves’ numbers of importance have little to do with the Phillies.
They have mostly to do with the wildcard, of which the Braves should secure with little sweat or worry.
Here’s why: To check the National League standings this morning is to see three teams at least 20 games over .500 (division leaders Atlanta, Cincinnati and San Diego) with a fourth team (Philly) within striking distance of that lofty perch, the Phils current 17 over (70-53).